Optometrist or Opthamologist? Does it matter?

[Corie]

I've always seen an Opthamologist. But several women
in my group have recommended an Optometrist here in town.

Is there a benefit to one or the other? I've always seen the
Opthamologist because they want to med school.

[brittone2]

I've had good and bad experiences with both, to be honest.

I have an optometrist that I found when we relocated. IME/IMO, if you don't have much in the way of overall health problems that can impact your vision (like diabetes, for example), and you don't anticipate wanting/needing surgery for cataracts, etc. then a good optometrist can work out fine. JMO.

If I had more complex needs, I'd probably opt for an opthamologist, but I've had not-so-great experiences with a few of them as well. Personal recommendations are often a great resource, so you may want to give the optometrist a try.

[kijip]

Because I have a family history of glaucoma and blindness in my family (that sets in late in life) I have always seen an opthamologist rather than an optometrist. That is just my personal preference, since my doctor wants me to see one anyways every 1-2 years, then it is easiest for them to write out my script for glasses (which true to family form are getting stronger and stronger!)

If you pay out of pocket for eye exams or have no medical concerns about your eyes, optometrists are a fine option. A good optometrist is going to be able to refer you to an eye doctor if they see any additional issues anyways.

[trales]

It really depends on your vision issues. I see an opthamoligist, but it is for a medical condition and is covered under my medical insurance. I go to a local opthalmologist once every two years for a regular exam and a specialist at Mass Eye and Ear once a year for scans and really specialized testing. My eyes are quite special and I really hope that DD got DH's eyes and not mine. But I secretly hope she gets my nose :ROTFLMAO:

[Globetrotter]

Optometrists tend to do a better job with routine vision exams and screenings, simply because they go to school for four years to study the eyes. Plus optometrists do this day in and day out so they are more experienced. If you need glasses or contacts, that's the way to go.

I would see an opthalmologist if I had any medical issues related to my eyes and certainly if I needed surgery.

[maestramommy]

I've always seen an optometrist. If all you want is your annual eye exam for contacts/glasses I think it's fine. If you have some possible eye issues, then an opthamalogist (sp?) would be better. Our new insurance covers an annual exam with the latter.